Spring brings security of water supply to communities across Donegal

28 March 2024

Investment in water services in Donegal has continued apace throughout 2023 and into 2024, with Uisce Éireann recently completing water mains replacement works in three communities. 

Dunfanaghy, Tobar Caoin and Straid are all benefitting from a more secure water supply after Uisce Éireann prioritised the replacement of almost 2km of old and damaged cast iron water mains. 

Continuing to support the growth of communities by developing critical infrastructure, Uisce Éireann is also completing leakage reduction works elsewhere in the county; in Liscooley to Castlefinn, Pluck Manorcunningham, and Coole Upper to Cranford trunk main with works currently ongoing. 

All of these projects will not only ensure the provision of safe drinking water, but they will support sustainable growth and enhance the environment. 

Outlining the benefits of these leakage reduction works in Donegal, Uisce Éireann’s Patricia Lowry said: “Many of the old and damaged pipes across these communities were prone to bursts and high levels of leakage leading to supply challenges for homes and businesses. The replacement with modern pipes not only enhances water quality but also reduces the volume of water lost to leakage, resulting in a comprehensive improvement to the water network.

“Since I became involved in the Leakage Reduction Programme, I have seen firsthand how efforts to tackle leakage have benefited local residents and businesses. We would like to take this opportunity to thank the local communities for their ongoing support and patience throughout the delivery of these vital projects.”

This project forms part of Uisce Éireann’s national Leakage Reduction Programme and will help us achieve our 2030 goal of a national leakage rate of 25%. The National Leakage Reduction team has made great strides since 2018 when the leakage rate stood at 46%. 

Since 2018, Uisce Éireann has invested more than €500 million to upgrade the underground water network across the country through the delivery of the national Leakage Reduction Programme. We are investing a further €250 million every year up to the end of 2030 - fixing leaks and replacing pipes to provide a more reliable water supply. For more information, please visit our National Leakage Reduction Programme page.